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Easy Flavor-Packed Korean Beef Bowl Recipe Perfect for Quick Dinners

easy flavor-packed Korean beef bowl recipe - featured image

A quick and easy Korean beef bowl recipe that combines savory, sweet, and umami flavors for a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3 cups (600 g) cooked jasmine or short-grain rice
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook 3 cups (600 g) of jasmine or short-grain rice according to package instructions (about 15-20 minutes). Set aside and keep warm.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Stir until sugar dissolves (about 3 minutes).
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until no longer pink (5-7 minutes).
  4. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
  5. Pour marinade over cooked beef and stir well. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 3-5 minutes until beef absorbs flavors and sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Add sliced green onions and stir to combine. Cook for another minute.
  7. Serve beef mixture over warm rice and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.

Notes

Use fresh garlic and ginger for best flavor. Drain excess fat after cooking beef to avoid greasiness. Simmer marinade with beef to develop a glossy, sticky sauce. For thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for leaner protein. Use tamari for gluten-free option. Vegetarian option: use crumbled tofu or tempeh.

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean beef bowl, quick dinner, easy recipe, ground beef, Korean food, weeknight meal, comfort food